Okay so this is probably the first time in my life I have written about a vacuum cleaner, but the Xiaomi S50 Smart Vacuum cleaner isn't exactly your average cleaner. Know the hue and cry that Roombas made? well this second generation offering from Xiaomi makes it look like a dumb vacuum. This is one of the few vacuum cleaners out there that use 3D laser mapping technology and SLAM algorithms to truly intelligently map the cleaning path (unlike the Roomba for eg, which just makes educated guesses on where it is).

Pre-Christmas Deal: Get the the Xiaomi Second Generation S50 Robotic Vacuum Cleaner for $499.99 using the promo code 'NEWXMVCM'

The Xiaomi robot vacuum cleaner basically uses a laser distance system to scan the room and utilizes a SLAM algorithm (simultaneous localization and mapping) to convert that into a readable map of the floor. This is similar technology that is deployed on the Tesla vehicles (although on a vastly bigger scale and scope). It is also incredibly exciting to me as a tech enthusiast and I wouldn't mind reviewing a vacuum cleaner for once.

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The second generation S50 robot vacuum cleaner from Xiaomi has increased suction (up to 2000 Pa) an improved chip and better capabilities. This is one of this activate and forget robot helpers of the future. Once of the cooles aspects is the self charging functionality of the robot. Once you set it and it detects battery levels have dropped, it will automatically head off to recharge itself from the docking station and resume its work once charged. You can also order it about like a, well, robot. It is going toe to toe with the Roombo iRobot and so far, it looks like Xiaomi has it outugnned on the tech side.

The vacuum is powerful enough to pick up steel beads, and the mop does not leave any room for a non-clean floor. The pre-christmas code is only valid for the first 300 customers so hurry up before the code vanishes for good.

2 in 1 Sweep and Mop

- Double cleaning: sweep first and then mop the floor

- The filter is root-inspired when the mopping pad is served as leaves to control water flow like a living organism. It can mop the floor constantly for 45 - 60 minutesIntelligent Route Planning

Laser Distance Sensor ( LDS ) allows the robot to scan its surroundings at 360 degrees, 1800 times per second, with the Simultaneous Localization and Mapping algorithm to map out the interiors of your home and then provides real-time planning routes, edge cleaning followed by Z-shaped cleaning according to the surroundingsThree-dimensional Vacuum Cleaning System

With its vacuum system, the robot empower your house a super cleaning like a tornado, with no dust, debris, granule, or any other wastes left, so clean and smooth that you can walk with bare feet on the floorAPP Remote Control

Customized cleaning area is available, just one click to set wherever you wanna clean with the map in your phone5200mAh Large Capacity Battery

The robot carries 5200mAh Li-ion battery which ensures 2.5 hours cleaning for a house of 250sq.m in full charge2000Pa Super Suction

With a strong power, the robot absorbs all the debris, steel beads, soybeans, dust, millet or any other wastes all in a suddenOther features

- 2cm obstacle climbing

- 2mm Rubber Bumper

- 360 degrees LDS pressure sensor

- 4 anti-drop stair sensors

- 10mm laser edge sensor

- Auto power-off after leaving the floor

- Automatic self-recharging sensor

Or buy the First Generation Xiaomi Robot Vacuum for $339.99

If you don't want to shell out the dough for the second generation one (or your wallet doesn't allow you to) the first generation version of the same cleaner is available for $340 for our readers. This features the same LDS and SLAM functionality but a slightly less powered vacuum (although still quite good!). This would also make an excellent gift for your beloved geek this christmas.